Stoddard Family Reunion

Stoddard Family Reunion - 1884

About 1802, John Stoddard, of Watertown Corner, removed to Coventryville, Chenango county, N.Y. Six children were then born, and three others were added afterward.  All these nine children married and raised families, and at this time none of the nine are living.  The third child and oldest daughter died November, 1875, aged 85.  The descendants of those nine children conveniently near held a family meeting at the residence of John Stoddard, of Coventryville.  Of the oldest son's family six members were present, one of these, Zerah Stoddard, a resident of Little Elm, Texas.  Of the fourth child and third son's family, nineteen members were present, three of these from New Jersey.  Of the seventh child and third daughter's family, Mrs. S.W. Warren, of this village, ten members were present, and all these reside in Bainbridge. In these nine families about forty children were born, and at the date not less than one hundred great-grandchilden of the original settler.  One of the noticeable features of such a gathering is the small number that can be gathered at any one time or place. They are widely scattered, and will only be once all gathered.  Another feature is the kindly feeling cultivated and maintained by these family gatherings.  There is a real unity in heart and life that ought not to be forgotten or neglected.  Pleasant memories, let them often return.